MagicInfo Premium is server software, and someone has to run that server. This page compares doing it yourself with using a hosted one, so you can decide with the work in view.
What running your own involves
You need a machine that is always on, reachable from every screen, and kept up to date. In practice that means a Windows server (physical or virtual), a database, a MagicInfo license, and a public address with a valid TLS certificate. Someone on your side must own it when it breaks.
Side by side
| Run your own | Hosted (MiCloud) | |
|---|---|---|
| Server and operating system | You buy, install and license | We run it |
| MagicInfo license | You buy it | Included in the per-display price |
| Setup time | Days, often more | Minutes: register, set the address on the screen |
| TLS certificate | You request, install and renew it | We handle it |
| Ports and firewall | You expose the server to the internet | Nothing to open for inbound; screens call out on 443 |
| MagicInfo updates | You schedule and test them | We handle server updates |
| Security patching | Yours: OS, database, MagicInfo | Ours, for the server |
| Uptime | Your hardware, your on-call | Ours; monitored around the clock by automated checks |
| Cost shape | Server, license, staff time | Per display: Lite $13.49/mo, Premium $29.99/mo, RM $4.95/mo |
| Control | Full, including the database | You manage content, users and devices; we manage the server |
Moving an existing server? We help you migrate your on-premises MagicInfo to our cloud. See Migrate your MagicInfo server to MiCloud.
Security is part of the job
MagicInfo is widely deployed, and public vulnerabilities exist. One example is CVE-2025-54438, a remote code execution issue in MagicINFO Server. A server exposed to the internet needs timely patching, restricted access and logging. If you self-host, put that on someone's calendar. Hosted, it is part of what you pay for.
When running your own is the right call
- You must keep all data on your own network or in a specific facility.
- You already run Windows servers with a patching process and spare capacity.
- You need direct database access or custom integrations.
- Your displays sit on a closed network with no internet.
If none of these apply, a hosted server saves time. Most small operators do not want a Windows server to look after.
What hosted does not change
Your screens, your content and your workflow stay the same. You still need working internet on site and displays that support MagicInfo. See supported displays.
Start the free trial (30 days, up to 5 screens, all Premium features, no card needed) and connect a screen to see the difference.